WASHINGTON, DC - The American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) commends today's action by the United States Senate confirming a new Deputy Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Alejandro Mayorkas.

"In order to fulfill the mission of DHS, experienced leadership with knowledge of immigration matters is imperative. The U.S. Senate recognized that need and to its credit confirmed Deputy Secretary Mayorkas," said AILA President Doug Stump.

Mr. Stump continued, "Mr. Mayorkas has led U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services since August, 2009 and has overseen the implementation of numerous initiatives, such as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and the provisional waivers policy. He quickly stood up the program for Temporary Protected Status for Haitians after the devastating earthquake there, another example of strong and effective management. It is heartening to have a Deputy Secretary with such a strong background in immigration issues who can serve as a resource for the DHS components who hold primary immigration law responsibility. It is absolutely vital that all DHS components with immigration responsibility share a common vision, speak with one voice on immigration, and consistently discharge their responsibilities."

"It's hard to explain how much of an impact DHS has on American families when it comes to immigration issues. Each day, the decisions made by this Department impact families and businesses - sometimes for the good and sometimes not. That's a huge task and responsibility and we applaud the Senate for seeing the importance of strong leadership at DHS by confirming both Deputy Secretary Mayorkas and Secretary Johnson this week," concluded Mr. Stump.

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The American Immigration Lawyers Association is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and enhance the professional development of its members.